The exam is 2 hours and 45 minutes long, divided into two sections. Section I includes 55 multiple-choice questions (1 hour 15 minutes), and Section II includes 4 free-response questions (1 hour 30 minutes). The free-response section typically includes questions on specific countries, comparative analysis, and conceptual understanding. Success requires both strong factual knowledge of the six countries and the ability to analyze and compare their systems effectively.

AP scores range from 1 to 5, with 3 or higher typically considered passing and eligible for college credit at most institutions. A score of 4 or 5 demonstrates strong mastery and is competitive for college placement. Your goal depends on your college plans and major, but personalized tutoring can help you identify weak areas early and develop targeted study strategies to improve your performance.

Many students struggle with keeping six different political systems straight, especially when comparing nuanced differences in how each country handles similar issues like elections or civil rights. The free-response section also challenges students who aren't used to writing analytical essays that require both country-specific examples and comparative analysis. Time management on the multiple-choice section is another common issue, as questions often require careful reading and deep understanding rather than quick recall.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who can help you build a comprehensive understanding of each country's political system, create comparison frameworks to keep concepts organized, and practice analyzing free-response prompts with detailed feedback. Tutors can also help you develop efficient note-taking strategies, identify which countries or topics are your weak spots, and practice pacing techniques for the multiple-choice section so you finish with time to review.

Most students benefit from starting preparation 2-3 months before the exam, dedicating 5-7 hours per week to studying. This timeline allows you to thoroughly learn each country's system, practice multiple-choice questions, and complete several full free-response essays with feedback. If you're starting closer to the exam date, personalized tutoring can help you prioritize the most important concepts and maximize your study efficiency.

Your first session typically focuses on understanding where you currently stand—whether you've started studying, which countries or topics feel strongest, and what your score goals are. The tutor will assess your familiarity with the exam format, your ability to write analytical free-response answers, and any specific challenges you're facing. From there, you'll develop a personalized study plan that targets your needs and fits your timeline before test day.

Practice tests help you get comfortable with the exam format, build test-taking stamina for the nearly 3-hour exam, and identify which countries or topics need more review. Taking full-length practice tests under timed conditions also reveals pacing issues—for example, whether you're spending too much time on multiple-choice and rushing through free-response essays. A tutor can review your practice test results with you to pinpoint patterns in your mistakes and adjust your study strategy accordingly.